New Hosts of The Lassa Virus
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This study provides increased insight into the evolution of LASV and demonstrates that the virus is more complex genetically and ecologically, maintained by multiple reservoirs. Our investigations have implications for the epidemiology and control of Lassa fever. As the ecology of M natalensis (which is mostly commensal) is not exactly the same as that of H. pamfi (forest dwelling) and M. erythroleucus (more of a generalist) the potential is present for Lassa fever to emerge in fresh niches other than currently exist in West Africa.
- Ayodeji Olayemi
- , Daniel Cadar
- , N?Faly Magassouba
- , Adeoba Obadare
- , Fode Kourouma
- , Akinlabi Oyeyiola
- , Samuel Fasogbon
- , Joseph Igbokwe
- , Toni Rieger
- , Sabrina Bockholt
- , Hanna J?r?me
- , Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit
- , Mutien Garigliany
- , Stephan Lorenzen
- , Felix Igbahenah
- , Jean-Nicolas Fichet
- ,Daniel Ortsega
- , Sunday Omilabu
- , Stephan G?nther
- & Elisabeth Fichet-Calvet
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This study provides increased insight into the evolution of LASV and demonstrates that the virus is more complex genetically and ecologically, maintained by multiple reservoirs. Our investigations have implications for the epidemiology and control of Lassa fever. As the ecology of M natalensis (which is mostly commensal) is not exactly the same as that of H. pamfi (forest dwelling) and M. erythroleucus (more of a generalist) the potential is present for Lassa fever to emerge in fresh niches other than currently exist in West Africa.